Morning Brief – Global Economic Growth

Friday 22nd Nov 2019

Global Economic Growth

Always useful at this time of year for export led businesses to look beyond forecasted growth rates for one’s own country or region. For those finalising their budgets for 2020 and 2021 global economic growth is forecast to be 2.9% for both years before clawing its way back to 3% in 2022.

Benjamin Netanyahu

Bad end of the week for BN who now faces charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Those of us who watch Israeli politics are conscious that this is unprecedented for Israel and a big shock for his supporters who previously believed Netanyahu to be bulletproof.

Thomas Cook: a story that ends well

Odd to think that just a few weeks ago, pundits were writing off the chances for Thomas Cook’s 2,330 workforce to have any chance of keeping their jobs. With the Hays Group’s timely intervention it turns out that not only were all of those jobs saved, but 200 additional jobs have been created in Head Office, 737 apprentices will be hired(one for each office within the enlarged group) and 500 new staff have been hired for the foreign exchange notes business. So a combined total of 1,437 new jobs.

Coldplay

Sustainability prize of the week goes to Chris Martin and the band who have elected not to tour to promote their new album Everyday Life which is launched today. Known of course for their songs Viva La Vida, Yellow and Paradise among many more, Coldplay are reducing their carbon footprint. With 7 albums under their belts and a net worth of $475 Million, Coldplay hardly need to promote themselves. Cynics among you might ask if sustainability is something that only the rich can afford to indulge in. We would beg to differ and suggest that it is a global move that should and must be embraced by all. Meanwhile best of luck to Coldplay for their new album and for promoting their own version of sustainability.